When traveling, why eat at the local fast food chain? It seems to be getting harder and harder to find a locally run restaurant down the block, much less at your vacation destination. Starbucks and McDonald's seem to be popping up everywhere and with the comfort of knowing the menu by heart we lose a little of America's originality.

And, while America's Independence Day has passed, there's still time to travel to a few of the historically themed restaurants around the country. Most of these places are family-friendly and offer items on the menu from a different time period as well as your hosts and waiters wearing historical outfits.

Fraunces Tavern in New York, N.Y.
It doesn't get more historical than this, George Washington himself dined here on many occasions. This is the spot where our first president drank wine on the night he retired from office. Open in 1762, it remains a restaurant today. They even have a three-course prix fixe lunch at $20.09, which is a steal in Manhattan. Dining here is like stepping back in time as it looks almost the same as it did 200 years ago. You can even throw a colonial theme wedding here.

1776 Restaurant in Chicago, Ill.
Located in Crystal Lake, the suburbs of Chicago, this eatery offers food like the wild game chili and smoked fish tasting menu. The wood bar features items relating to the revolutionary war which adorn the wall. Be sure to try the 1776 Famous Forest Mushroom Soup.

Michie Tavern in Charlottesville Va.
The servers dress like it is 1784 inside a rustic style tavern. Enjoy the southern buffet with recipes which have been around since the 18th century. Bring the kids on a tour of the old house and let them play games that date back hundreds of years. In the winter months, enjoy a homemade hot cider while sitting in front of a roaring fireplace.

City Tavern in Philadelphia, Pa.
Our second president John Adams not only dined here, he called City Tavern "the most genteel tavern in America." Today this local watering hole looks much like it did in President Adams' day. Located in the heart of Philadelphia's historic district, it is just down the block from Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. Items on the menu include West Indies Pepperpot Soup and Roasted Duckling. The award winning restaurant is a popular place, so reservations are recommended.

Colonial Williamsburg in Williamsburg, Va.
This is the granddaddy of all places to get your historic grub on. There are ten restaurants in the theme park with five considered 18th century dining. Be sure to stop by Christiana Campbell's Tavern, as George Washington himself had more than a few meals there. If you want to knock back a drink or two, visit the Chowning's Tavern and buy yourself a refillable souvenir mug as the historically dressed staff serves you a bowl of homemade stew.

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